Danlei Zhao is a mezzo-soprano, born in Yunnan, China. She is often described as a vibrant, passionate, singer who cares and loves her music. Her opera performances include Zita from Puccini’s Gianni Scchichi, Edka from Jake Heggie’s Two Remain, Arnalta from L’incoronazione di poppea with Chicago Summer Opera, Dritte Dame from Die Zauberflöte with Miami Music Festival and Sally in Samuel Barber’s The Hand of Bridge. Her international experience extends to performances and studies in Italy, Austria, and China. Recently graduating from the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University under the guidance of Elizabeth Byrne, she also earned her Bachelor of Arts with honors recognition from the University of California, San Diego in 2021. Beyond her repertoire in traditional classical Western music, Danlei holds a strong interest in exploring and performing indigenous pieces from her hometown.
You can find Danlei’s 2024 Winter Music Competition vocal performance here.